I have always been fascinated by the trillions of microscopic organisms busily inhabiting and working in our bodies and in the soil. It is amazing how little we know of why they are there and what they do. Scientists have, of course, long been aware of the bacteria in our stomachs and skin, but had always thought the brain and lungs were off limits to these foreign bodies. Now, a PLoS ONE study cited in the Boston Globe, suggests otherwise. The researchers found evidence of a specialized brain bacteria, but they don’t know what they do.

The new discoveries of microbiology in lava, Arctic ice and in the brain remind us of the importance of our tiny friends. We have to learn to coexist. It’s time for us humans to curtail the profligate use of antibiotics and pesticides. Remember, they may know what you are thinking!

Learn more about bacteria and the world beneath our feet here.

Photo courtesy of wikimedia.org